Staffordshire’s most outstanding businesses were recognised last night at the landmark tenth annual Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce Business Awards.
Held in the Final Furlong Marquee at Uttoxeter Racecourse, the awards attracted the biggest audience in their 10-year history, with businesses of all sizes and sectors coming together to celebrate the enterprise and innovation across Staffordshire.
Taking home the coveted Business of the Year Award was multinational manufacturing powerhouse, JCB.
It was one of three awards picked up by the Rocester-headquartered business who also took home both the Medium/Large Business of the Year, and Innovation, Science and Technology Awards.
Another highlight of the evening was the recognition for Joanne Conroy-Wilson, who was named We Are Staffordshire Ambassador of the Year for her ongoing dedication and impactful work at NSCG.
The full list of winners include:
| Category | Sponsor | Winner |
| Business of the Year | HSBC | JCB |
| Medium/Large Business of the Year | Dains | JCB |
| Employee of the Year | Ornua | Dr Robert Crookes |
| Professional Services | NSCG | Ironmarket |
| Employer of the Year | Ironmarket | Hex Group |
| Small business of the year | Sempar | Kilncare |
| Sustainability and Environment Award | Givenergy | Waterworld Leisure Group |
| Entrepreneur of the Year | University of Staffordshire | Amit Jilka and Mumta Jilka |
| Hospitality, Lesiure and Tourism Award | iZero | Waterworld Leisure Group |
| Start-up and Step-up Award | Staffordshire County Council | Big Reputation |
| Responsible Business | Rydale Roofing | Wavemaker |
| Innovation, Science and Technology Award | TMT First | JCB |
| Manufacturer of the Year | DJH | Allicio |
| Learning and Development Award | Currie Young | Saskia Rigby – 1882 |
| International Trade Award | Indurent | Barkers Engineering |
| Digital Award | Capula | Podsmith |
To commemorate the 10th anniversary of the awards, all 15 winners were presented with an exclusive, limited-edition plate, handcrafted by Longton-based Duchess China.
The bespoke piece, adorned with elegant gold detailing, pays tribute to Staffordshire’s rich ceramics heritage and stands as a timeless symbol of excellence.
Rachel Laver, CEO of Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, said: “As we celebrate ten years of recognising the best in Staffordshire business, last night was a true showcase of what makes our region so special – innovation, resilience and local pride.
“The Duchess China plate is a beautiful keepsake to mark this milestone, honouring our winners while championing Staffordshire’s legacy of world-class craftsmanship.
“Congratulations to all of this year’s winners who represent the very best of what our business community can achieve.”
Businesses are also being invited to take part in a series of free, face-to-face skills workshops, launched to celebrate ten years of the Staffordshire Chambers Business Awards. Find out more, here.
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce would like to extend its thanks to all of the sponsors, partners, judges, and attendees whose invaluable support contributed to the resounding success of the 2025 Business Awards.
For more information about Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce and its initiatives, please click here.
